By Nicholas Tamarin

In this interview, we delve into Ellen’s journey, from her early inspirations to her current role as a leading voice in kitchen and bath design, exploring the experiences that have shaped her approach, fueled her success, and ultimately led to her NKBA | KBIS Certification.

What is your background?

My journey to becoming a CMKBD began when my three children were school age. Today, they are successful adults, and my husband and I enjoy being grandparents to two adorable grandsons. Currently, I run a successful design studio on Long Island where my team and I specialize in kitchens and baths. I have honed my skills to be recognized as a millwork specialist among my peers.

In addition to millwork, my services include whole-home design. I work with clients to create flow and function, ensuring effortless movement in their daily tasks. I consider all their future wants and needs before construction begins, presenting all information in a complete set of construction documents. Taking my business to this level of detail stems from learning proper documentation from the NKBA Graphics and Presentation Standards.

How did you first get into design?

Initially dreaming of a fashion career, I studied buying and merchandising at New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology and worked for Charles Jourdan. However, my passion truly lay in design. I returned to FIT for textile design and worked in home furnishings, creating patterns and overseeing production. After staying home with my children, I pursued kitchen and bath design in 2006, opting for certification over another degree. I gained experience at Home Depot, an installation company, and a luxury design center before founding EL Design Studio in 2014.

Tell us about your NKBA Certification process?

For the AKBD exam, I studied with a partner through the NKBA Manhattan Chapter. We met in a Starbucks regularly for 2-3 hour study sessions with our NKBA flash cards. I earned my CKD by taking a CAD exam in Brooklyn. I achieved my CMKBD in 2020-2021 through the NKBA’s “Level Up” opportunity, completing the CBD portion remotely and submitting my experience documentation. The NKBA was so supportive throughout my journey to CMKBD.

Why did you take the time to get NKBA Certified?

Obtaining my certification enhances my professionalism and distinguishes me as a designer rather than a cabinet salesperson or decorator. Adhering to guidelines established by a professional organization and governing body ensures a standardized approach to documenting our work, facilitating effective communication with peers and trades.

How has NKBA Certification helped?

My journey, grounded in training, testing, and continuing education, instills confidence in my abilities. My affiliation with this organization and the upkeep of my certification through ongoing education are reflected in all aspects of my work. Whether providing product information or mastering the technicalities of designing kitchens, baths, and more, this foundation defines our professionalism.

If you’re interested in learning more about benefits and options, check out our NKBA Certification page.

Industry Pros Report Flat Revenue, Muted Consumer Demand in NKBA / John Burns Q1 2025 Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) Report

By NKBA Editorial Staff

While the kitchen and bath industry had been poised for a modest rebound in 2025, industry professionals are revising and slightly tempering their projection for growth this year, according to key findings in the NKBA / John Burns Q1 2025 Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) report.

The Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) dipped to 55.1 in Q1 2025 from 59.7 in Q4 2024 as consumer demand for kitchen and bath products weakened amid concerns about economic uncertainty and the impact of new tariffs and other policy shifts. Kitchen and bath firms in three of the four segments surveyed downgraded their ratings, reversing the upward trend previously seen across all segments last quarter.

K&B industry revenue growth was flat at +0.2% year over year (YOY) in Q1 2025, reversing the trend from Q4 2024 when sales rose. Industry pros say they expect this trend to continue: in Q1 2025, K&B firms’ 2025 revenue growth expectation averaged +3.1%, down from +3.7% in Q4 2024. However, if, as expected, prices rise by a similar or higher amount this year, flat or even negative unit sales volumes could become a reality.

The Kitchen & Bath Market Index Survey, which is the basis for the KBMI findings, is conducted jointly by the NKBA and John Burns Research and Consulting. The Q1 2025 report is based on findings from 734 members of the NKBA community across four primary industry segments: design; building and remodeling; retail sales; and manufacturing.

Here are some additional insights about the uncertain start to 2025 and the industry’s latest outlook for 2025:

A Significant Rise in Input Costs

K&B retail and distribution firms report that their suppliers raised prices by +5.2% YOY in Q1 2025, reversing previous progress on kitchen and bath product inflation. Markups in Q1 2025 were highest (+7% YOY) for appliances, which have heavy exposure to countries impacted by recent tariff policy shifts.

Many firms had no choice but to raise prices in response. Kitchen and bath builder and remodeler pricing grew to +5.2% on average in Q1 2025. Lead times in Q1 are extending for key products, including cabinets, vanities and major appliances.

Tariff Policy Uncertainty Looms Large

K&B professionals now rate trade issues as their number one concern impacting the industry. Retail segment firms are already reporting an uptick in product costs. The industry expects supply chain disruptions to increase and pricing to continue to drift upward as tariffs reshuffle the international trade balance.

Consumer behavior is being impacted by uncertainty around changing tariff policies. Two-thirds of K&B firms (68%) reported that consumers either held steady on product quality or downgraded to lower-grade products in Q1 2025, reflecting caution in the planning of kitchen and bath renovations.

Insights into Adaptive Strategies

For the first time, the Q1 2025 KBMI report includes insights from K&B firms about how they are coping with their greatest industry concerns, specifically regarding the cost of materials, trade issues and fear of a recession. Their strategies range from seeking out alternative products and suppliers to lowering their profit margins.

“There’s no doubt that uncertainty around tariff policies and other macroeconomic factors is heavily influencing the K&B industry’s more muted outlook for 2025, as well as consumer behavior,” said NKBA I KBIS Global President & CEO Bill Darcy. “As we wait for more answers to come into focus about the extent and longevity of these impacts, we know that our industry will continue to be resilient and find ways to meet these evolving challenges.”

Read more about what K&B industry pros are saying about the challenges and opportunities they see in the months ahead by downloading the NKBA / John Burns Q1 2025 Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) report here.

A selection of our most discerning judges dish on what makes a successful submission.

By Nicholas Tamarin

The NKBA | KBIS Design Competition is considered the Oscars of the kitchen and bath industry, renowned for its prestige and the significant rewards it offers. It provides a critical platform for professionals to showcase their talents and advance their careers. But what truly goes on behind the scenes of this esteemed event? What are the judges looking for, and how can entrants maximize their chances of success? Let’s delve into the judging process and reveal the secrets to creating winning designs.

Inside the Judging Process

Judges dedicate considerable time and effort to thoroughly evaluate each entry, acknowledging the significant investment entrants make in professional photography and comprehensive submissions. On average, judges spend around 15 minutes per entry, providing valuable feedback and numerical scores. This feedback is essential for entrants, helping them understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

Entries are evaluated based on several core areas: creativity; presentation; design planning; elements and principles of design; safety and ergonomics; and adherence to the NKBA Planning Guidelines (4th Edition). Judges also consider the overall wow factor, the longevity of the design, and the functionality of the layout. Each entry receives careful consideration, with judges striving for fairness and thoroughness. We asked a trio of our most experienced judges to share valuable insights into their evaluation process:

Insights from the Judges

Doug Walter, AIA, CMKBD, highlights critical areas such as lighting and adherence to the Design Guidelines, pointing out issues like incorrect lighting placement and the need for clear graphics. He also stresses the importance of accurate graphics and dimensions. “It takes a lot of time and money to professionally photograph a project, then to pull everything together to enter it,” Walter says. “We therefore owe it to each entrant to give their entry our full attention, and not to rush through them. What ultimately separates the contenders from the finalists isn’t just the photography—it’s the clarity and completeness of the design statements and plans. Judges understand that your photographer may Photoshop their photos, but do NOT let them photoshop out the recessed lights, as I’ve seen in many projects, as that’s one of the judging criteria – lighting! My advice would be to do a combination of shots with lights on and lights off. Particularly effective is daytime natural light shots, and then coming back after sunset and doing several shots with lights blazing, and include at least one of them in your final submittal. But perhaps the number one tip I would give designers, besides making sure the project meets the Design Guidelines, is to triple check that the graphics are to full NKBA standards. Not dimensioning aisleways, not putting ceiling height on the plan, or not including a centerline string can lose you a point or two.”

Stacy McCarthy, CMKBD, CID, stresses the importance of supporting documents, stating they are just as critical as visuals. “What ultimately separates the contenders from the finalists isn’t just the photography—it’s the clarity and completeness of the design statements and plans,” McCarthy says. “What many entrants may not realize is that these supporting documents are just as critical as the visuals for the judges to each segment of the score sheet. A well-crafted design statement that clearly aligns with the plans and the NKBA guidelines helps us, as judges, fully understand the intent, process, and function of the space. When the narrative is incomplete, disorganized, or missing key details, it’s difficult to give a high score on those segments specifically on the score sheet—even if the photos are stunning. These should be easy areas to score high in and you do not want to give away points. If I could give one piece of advice to future entrants, it’s this: Treat your design statement and plans like your backstage pass.”

Cailin Thelen, CMKBD, focuses on uncluttered plans, clear dimensions, safety, staged photos with close-ups, concise design statements with bullet points, and introductions that add personality. “Safety in design—think water closets with pocket or outswing doors, shower controls at shower entrances, and ranges flanked with open counter space as a starting place,” Thelen says. “I also like nicely staged photos, but especially with close-ups of specialties or materials. Design statements should be concise with bullet points and a short introduction that gives the project and designer/client relationship personality. NKBA’s recommended elements are also a foolproof system for showcasing your project—even if it’s not for an NKBA competition. They are: Objectives, Design Challenges along with the Solutions, and Special Features. Don’t hide the highlights in a block of words.”

Key Takeaways for Entrants

To increase their chances of success, entrants should keep the following in mind:

• Pay Attention to Detail: Every aspect, from photography to design statements and plans, matters. Ensure all graphics meet NKBA standards, including accurate dimensions and centerline strings.
• Follow NKBA Guidelines: Adherence to guidelines is crucial, especially regarding safety, lighting, aisle widths, and vent hood sizes. Thoroughly review and follow the NKBA Planning Guidelines.
• Provide Clear Documentation: Ensure plans are clear, dimensions are accurate, and design statements are concise and informative. Treat your design statement and plans like a “backstage pass.” Include detailed descriptions, appliance/product lists, and before plans/photos for remodels.
• Don’t Neglect Graphics: Triple-check that graphics meet full NKBA standards. Pay attention to accurate graphics and dimensions, as even a single point deduction can be detrimental.
• Highlight Special Features: Showcase unique elements and materials with close-up photos.
• Focus on Safety: Design for safety, including clearances, landing zones, and proper lighting.
• Seek Feedback: Understand that judge comments are invaluable for improvement.
• Craft a Compelling Narrative: Write a clear and well-organized design statement that aligns with the plans and showcases the project’s intent.
• Capture High-Quality Photos: Submit both natural light and lit photos, ensuring lighting is accurately represented. Avoid photoshopping out recessed lights.
• Showcase Creativity and Functionality: Design spaces that are innovative, practical, and built to last.

The NKBA Design Competition is a rigorous process that demands excellence in every facet of design. By understanding the judging criteria, insights from the judges, and incorporating these tips, future entrants can better prepare and present their work, significantly enhancing their chances of success.

To learn more about the NKBA | KBIS’s Kitchen and Bath Design Competition please visit click here.

These essentials from some of our favorite member companies can elevate any backyard BBQ.

By Nicholas Tamarin

As warmer months approach, the backyard becomes more than just a patch of green—it transforms into the heart of home entertaining. But outdoor living has evolved well beyond the classic grill. Today’s backyard kitchens are fully equipped culinary spaces designed for convenience, performance, and entertaining in style. Whether hosting a summer pizza night or prepping drinks for a weekend BBQ, the right grill, pizza oven, refrigerator, or sink can make all the difference.

The following NKBA | KBIS member brands make the products that make it easy to entertain in style. With thoughtful design and cutting-edge performance, they’ll ensure your next backyard gathering will impress regardless of what’s on the menu. Whether you’re building a full alfresco kitchen or simply upgrading your BBQ station, investing in these high-quality outdoor appliances where durability meets design will make you the ultimate host of the season.

PITT Cooking: Minimalist Design and Maximum Performance

For those who believe outdoor cooking should look as good as it performs, PITT Cooking offers a striking alternative to the traditional grill setup. Known for its integrated gas burners built directly into the countertop, PITT allows for a seamless, open design. 

Why we love it: The minimalist aesthetic is paired with high-performance power, making it a go-to choice for design-forward homeowners who want complete control over their outdoor kitchen layout. Plus, its durable materials stand up beautifully to the elements, season after season.

Urban Bonfire x Kalamazoo: Custom Outdoor Kitchens That Wow

Creating a cohesive, functional, and stylish outdoor space starts with the right cabinetry—and Urban Bonfire delivers in spades. Their custom-built, marine-grade aluminum cabinetry is made to withstand harsh weather without sacrificing visual appeal. Combine it with Kalamazoo Gourmet’s best-in-class outdoor appliances, and you’ve got a kitchen that rivals any indoor setup. From weather-resistant surfaces to built-in grills and beverage centers, this pairing brings professional-grade sophistication and performance to your backyard. 

Why we love it: The Kalamazoo AFPO-C Countertop Artisan Fire Pizza Oven offers the convenience of gas power while reaching temperatures of 800°F+ for authentic, wood-fired results without the wait. Its dual burners allow for customizable heat zones and precise control.

Hestan: Bold Color Meets Culinary Precision

Known for pushing the boundaries of outdoor cooking, Hestan delivers robust grilling systems with a bold, designer touch. Their color-customizable grills—available in a range of vibrant hues—add a pop of personality to any outdoor setting. But it’s not just about looks. With infrared sear burners, motion-activated under-hood lighting, and precision control, Hestan grills are made for serious outdoor chefs who demand both style and substance. 

Why we love it: Hestan’s Outdoor Refrigerators, with their commercial-grade build, LED interior lighting, adjustable shelves, and temperature control system designed for extreme heat, are equally as excellent as their grills.

Ruvati: Making Sinks Sturdy and Sleek

A functional outdoor sink is essential for a fully equipped prep station. The best outdoor sinks offer durability, weather resistance, and sleek design. Ruvati’s marine-grade outdoor sinks are designed for outdoor areas where extreme corrosion resistance is crucial.

Why we love it: Its Outdoor Workstation Sinks stand out for their heavy-duty 16-gauge stainless steel construction and inclusion of built-in accessories like a cutting board, colander, and drying rack.

Over $150,000 in total prize money will be awarded.

By Nicholas Tamarin

The NKBA | KBIS Design Competition 2026 is now officially open for entries, offering kitchen and bath designers a fantastic opportunity to showcase their talent on an international stage. This is your chance to gain industry recognition and compete for significant cash prizes—with over $150,000 in total prize money, the stakes are high! Top winners in the Best Overall Kitchen and Best Overall Bath categories can earn $25,000 each, and an additional $25,000 if they are NKBA certified, for a potential total of $50,000! Even first, second, and third place winners receive substantial cash awards.

Beyond the monetary prizes, recognition from the NKBA Design Competition is a significant achievement. It’s one of the most prestigious competitions in the K&B industry, and winners are honored at the NKBA’s Design + Industry Awards Ceremony at KBIS 2026 in Orlando from February 17-19. Winning can also lead to increased exposure through media outlets and open up new career opportunities.

Projects will be judged in two rounds by top trade publication editors and NKBA-certified designers, who will be looking for creativity, innovation, and that wow factor. So don’t miss your chance to become the next K&B superstar! 

The submission deadline is July 25, 2025. Visit the NKBA 2026 Design Competition page for more information and to submit your entry today!

CNC Cabinetry is ready to roll out the first of its kind cabinetry following its KBIS star turn.

By Nicholas Tamarin

After debuting at KBIS 2025, it’s time to get ready to experience the future of kitchen design with Vibe Technology, an intriguing new innovation from CNC Cabinetry. Imagine cabinet doors that can change color at your command, matching your mood, music, or décor. 

Based in South Plainfield, New Jersey, CNC Cabinetry’s Vibe Technology isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a dynamic and interactive space. Nathan Indig, the Founder and CEO of CNC Cabinetry, long envisioned color-changing cabinetry, but now what started as a playful idea in the office has evolved into a patent-pending technology ready to hit the market.

How Does It Work?

The VibeSpaces system involves purchasing an entire cabinet box from CNC Cabinetry, as the color-changing doors are hardwired into the unit. Installation is straightforward, with units connecting easily. An accompanying app allows you to control the colors and effects. You can choose vibrant neon shades or mute them to a deep forest green or calming blue. When turned off, the doors default to a gray color.

More Than Just Color

Vibe Technology goes beyond simple color changes. You can connect the cabinets to music, allowing the doors to respond to the beat. The technology can also pick up sound in the environment or through the mobile app, creating a synchronized light and sound experience.

A Niche Product with Broad Potential
CNC Cabinetry acknowledges that Vibe Technology is a niche product but sees a wide range of potential applications. While it’s initially designed for kitchen cabinetry, it could be used in retail spaces, bars, clubs, and even chill-out caves. To learn more about Vibe Technology head on over here.

By Nicholas Tamarin

she earned her own Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer credential in 2002. When away from the drafting board, Cailin enjoys spending time with family, teasing the family’s beloved schnauzer and tabby, and baking. She told us about her journey to NKBA Certification.

What’s your background? How about educationally?

From chasing butterflies as a kid in Ohio corn fields, I landed in suburban Atlanta for high school and later lived there. Creativity has always been a part of my life, whether it was stage acting, sewing clothes or costumes, or decorating cakes.

I was grounded in a strong work ethic, which includes showing up early, doing more than is expected, and mastering the fundamentals before doing it your own way. Berry College in Georgia (no corn fields, but plenty of cows) is my alma mater, with an undergraduate degree in home economics and a minor in interior design.

How did you first get into design?

My mother is my inspiration for going into the field of kitchen and bath design. She showed me what should be behind a beautiful façade: floor plans that function, cabinetry that lasts, and safe surroundings. She’s been a kitchen and bath designer since the early 1980s and is also a CMKBD. 

The deal was sealed when I started apprenticing under architect and CKD, Ken Thelen, who became my father-in-law. His engineer’s perspective, working in a design-build firm, the aroma of fresh framing, and with my mother’s enthusiasm are all reasons kitchen and bath design still holds me today.

Tell us about your NKBA Certification process?

Pursuing certification started during my junior year in college when my school worked with me to approve NKBA’s Bath Designer School course as credit toward my degree. Following graduation, building up knowledge and drafting practice was important while fulfilling the minimum work experience required. I became a CKD in 1992, a CBD in 1994, and arrived full circle with a CMKBD in 2002.

Why did you take the time to get NKBA Certified?

It’s an emblem of professionalism going above and beyond, and being serious about my craft.

How has NKBA Certification helped?

Certification:

• Has won over clients
• Validates my skills to potential clients and peers while promoting their confidence in me
• Keeps continuing education in the forefront, leading to more-than-required learning hours earned
• Opens up other professional opportunities, such as being a panelist or design competition judge
• Advocates my professionalism

If you’re interested in learning more about benefits and options, check out our NKBA Certification page.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

Company News

SieMatic’s New Line: Premium German kitchen maker SieMatic has introduced the Mondial Style Collection of kitchen cabinetry, workspaces, and storage solutions. The line is characterized by its minimalist geometric forms, luxe finishes, and handle-free door systems. Shapes include cubed glass-front cabinets, semi-circular bars, round tables, customized drawer inserts and varying cabinet elevations. Learn more here.

LOTTE Links with EKO: LOTTE Chemical, a manufacturer of high-end engineered quartz surfaces under the Radianz Quartz brand, had entered a deal with EKO Stone to promote, sell, and distribute Radianz across the Midwest U.S. market. LOTTE has facilities all over the world with an office in California. EKO, which manufactures and distributes quartz and natural stone surfaces, is headquartered in the Chicago area. The deal will make Radianz more readily available to the Midwest and cut lead times. Learn more about Radianz here and EKO here.

A Launch and a Purchase for Wilsonart: Engineered surfacing giant Wilsonart has introduced a new series in its Thinscape® Composite Tops collection. Sixteen new designs of the durable composite material are available, including woodgrain, stone, solid, and textile patterns. Ultra-thin (half-inch thick) surfaces are available in multiple sizes and are certified eco-friendly. Wilsonart also acquired Virginia Tile’s woodworking products distribution business. The acquired operations are headquartered in Kansas City, KS, with branches in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, OK; Wichita, KS; and Springfield, MO. These locations distribute decorative surfaces, cabinet accessories and decorative and functional hardware. More detail here.

Officine Gullo Opens in Dallas: Florence, Italy-based luxury Italian appliance and kitchen manufacturer Officine Gullo, an NKBA Global Connect member, has opened a showroom in Dallas. The 4,000 square-foot space on Oak Lawn Avenue was previously an art gallery and it retains the “artistic atmosphere” to showcase each product “like a piece of art,” according to Matteo Gullo, managing director. This is the company’s seventh flagship gallery in the U.S. It has two locations in New York, and galleries in Boston, Miami, Palm Beach, and Los Angeles. KBB has more.

Chapter Updates

Win Big With Metro New York: The Metro New York Chapter is hosting its annual Casino Night on May 22, 6 to 9 pm, at UMI Stone, 3 Dubon Court, Farmingdale, NY. Enjoy blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker tables, catered food and cocktails, and chances to win raffles and giveaways and a three-night stay at a luxury beach resort in Panama. The evening is free for NBKA members, $40 for non-members. Register here.

Sharp Showers With West Michigan: Learn about Schluter with the West Michigan Chapter on May 28, 5 to 7 pm, at the new Floor & Decor showroom at 4250 28^th Street SE in Grand Rapids. Casey Bossard from Schluter will demonstrate how to install the Schluter Kerdi system for a great-looking, high-performance shower. Pasta dinner is included with registration, which is $20 for NKBA members, $30 for non-members. Info and registration here.

Industry News

New Home Sales Spike: Sales of new single-family homes jumped 7.4 percent in March over February, and were 6 percent over March 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Part of this can be attributed to the median sales price of a new home falling 1.9 percent in March from February, as mortgage rates held steady in March, with the 30-year rate hovering just under 7 percent. Housing permits also edged up 1.6 percent in March from February, but starts were down 11.4 percent on a monthly basis. More detail here.

As of this writing, the news of significant, new tariffs on products from U.S. trading partners — and their potential impact on the American economy, companies and individual consumers — continues to make headlines. The ultimate outcome of this fundamental reshaping of U.S. trade policy is still to be determined. In the meantime, the K&B industry is contending with yet another element of uncertainty, something that tends to adversely affect short-term growth.

Going into 2025, industry pros expressed cautious optimism about a return to gradual growth for the residential kitchen and bath market following two consecutive years of decline. Our NKBA Kitchen & Bath Market Outlook Report projected that U.S. residential kitchen and bath spending would grow by +0.8% to $235 billion in 2025, up $2 billion from last year. 

I mentioned in my State of the Association address at KBIS that we would be keeping our eye on two big unknowns that represent downside risk to our 2025 forecast. The first is what will happen with the so-called “missing middle,” the large group of homeowners who are chomping at the bit to start mid-range renovations but have held off, in large part, because of stubborn borrowing rates. They remain the key to a full recovery in K&B remodels. 

The second unknown is the impact of tariffs and changes to immigration policy. We are still waiting to see how much these factors will change the cost of K&B materials and labor – and how those increases will alter consumer behavior.

We do have some early indications, based on findings in our latest 1Q25 NKBA Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) report. In short, uncertainty about tariff policy is heavily influencing the K&B industry’s more muted outlook for 2025 – professionals now rate trade issues as their number one concern impacting the industry.

A few important tariff-related insights:

• Tariff-related concerns and fears of a recession impaired consumer and business confidence in 1Q, diminishing the industry’s ability to plan. 
• K&B manufacturers’ orders rose +4.4% YOY in 1Q25, due in part to pre-buying by downstream firms anxious about pending tariff-related price increases.
• Input costs rose significantly in 1Q, adding to inflationary pressures.
  • K&B retail and distribution firms report that their suppliers raised prices by +5.2% YOY in 1Q25, reversing previous progress on kitchen and bath product inflation.
  • Markups in 1Q25 were highest (+7% YOY) for appliances, which have heavy exposure to countries impacted by recent tariff policy shifts.
  • Many firms had no choice but to raise prices in response. Kitchen and bath builder and remodeler pricing grew to +5.2% on average in 1Q25. 
• Two-thirds of K&B firms (68%) reported that consumers either held steady on product quality or downgraded to lower-grade products in 1Q25, reflecting caution in the planning of kitchen and bath renovations.

The industry expects supply chain disruptions to increase and pricing to continue to drift upward as tariffs re-shuffle the international trade balance.

While NKBA isn’t a lobbying organization, we do have an important role to play in facilitating dialogue and surfacing data and other insights from our members – both here in North America and in other global markets — about how federal policies are affecting the health of our industry. 

To that end, I encourage you to register for our new webinar – airing May 2 at 12 pm (Eastern Time) – featuring the perspective of Nishu Sood, Principal of Research, at John Burns Research & Consulting, about the major macroeconomic events we are all closely following. Among other insights, Nishu believes the glaring headlines about tariff policy changes may be having an inflated impact, and that there’s reason for some optimism that business and consumer sentiment will ultimately improve based on actual experiences.

Nishu’s presentation will be followed by an overview of key findings from the new 1Q25 NKBA Kitchen and Bath Market Index (KBMI) report about K&B consumer and business sentiment.

It’s a volatile period for our industry, which means that now, more than ever, it’s essential to stay informed and connected.

We asked a trio of NKBA | KBIS stars for insights into today’s buyer priorities.

By Nicholas Tamarin

Buying a new home is just the beginning. Once the keys are in hand, new homeowners shift their focus from square footage and finishes to functionality, comfort, and personalization. Their post-purchase priorities reveal a lot about how modern homeowners live—and what they value most. In honor of New Homeowner’s Day on May 1—also, of course, International Workers’ Day (or May Day)—we asked a trio of our most active NKBA | KBIS designers how all their clients’ hard-earned money is being strategically deployed on their most important purchases.

McCabe By Design’s Molly Erin McCabe, AKBD, CGP, CAPS, CLIPP says laundry rooms have evolved into a focal point, driven by pandemic-era dissatisfaction. “Hybrid spaces combining mudrooms, laundry, and even pet stations, alongside areas for bathing and seating, are emerging,” McCabe says. “Closets are being seen as canvases for organization, setting a positive tone for the day.” With remote work remaining prevalent, dedicated workspaces, sometimes with separate exterior doors for clients, are in demand, according to McCabe. These workspaces often incorporate features for video calls and may double as meditation rooms, offering a recharging environment. Outdoor living spaces designed for entertainment are also popular, extending the home’s square footage for staycations. 

Detail by Design principal Natalia Pierce, CMKBD, stressed the importance of storage solutions and simplicity. “Homeowners often seek to maximize space for ease and convenience, often adding storage that wasn’t part of the original design,” Pierce says. “There’s also a trend towards less clutter, designated spaces for items, and clean lines, like the shift to simpler flat moldings rather than ornate crown ones.” Additionally, advocating for matte or non-reflective surfaces is crucial, Pierce adds. “We all have constant stimulation from a multitude of devices, and we do not need more feedback from our surroundings. Shiny surfaces have reflection and glare, whereas matte or textured surfaces reduce this feedback and are more calming.”

Denean Jackson of D.Nicole Design Studio notes that new homeowners today are prioritizing personalized and functional spaces more than ever. “Many of my clients are asking for upgrades that reflect their lifestyle right away,” Jackson says. “Things like custom kitchen storage, spa-inspired bathrooms, and multi-functional rooms that can evolve with their needs.” 

As noted, the post-purchase phase is full of discovery—and opportunity. Tuning in to what homeowners want after the sale is just as important as what they wanted before. By helping them fine-tune their new space, designers are not just supporting a project—they’re building trust and long-term relationships. Here’s our complete list of what new homeowners are asking for after move-in:

1. Custom Storage Solutions

After living in the space for a few weeks, many homeowners realize they need more efficient storage—especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens, closets, and garages.

• Built-in organizers and cabinetry upgrades
• Mudroom cubbies or drop zones
• Pantry systems with pull-out shelving

Why: Organization is key to making a new house feel like home. Custom solutions help reduce clutter and improve daily routines.

2. Outdoor Enhancements

Backyards often become a top focus post-purchase, especially as homeowners look to extend their living and entertaining spaces.

• Landscaping and hardscaping
• Patio furniture and fire pits
• Outdoor kitchens, pizza ovens, or built-in grills
• Shade structures like pergolas or retractable awnings

Why: Creating a welcoming outdoor space is a high priority—whether for relaxing solo or hosting friends.

3. Smart Home Upgrades

Even if the home came with some smart features, many buyers want to expand their systems for full control and convenience.

• Smart thermostats, lighting, and blinds
• Security systems and doorbell cameras
• Home hubs or integrated control systems

Why: Tech-savvy homeowners are investing in efficiency, safety, and automation tailored to their lifestyle.

(Tip: Designers should look to partner with technology professionals, like those from CEDIA, to help bring their clients’ smart home dreams to life.)

4. Energy Efficiency Improvements

After their first utility bills arrive, many homeowners look to optimize energy use and lower costs.

• Additional insulation or window treatments
• Solar panel installation
• Energy-efficient appliances or water heaters

Why: Sustainability remains top-of-mind and energy-efficient upgrades are both eco-friendly and cost-saving.

5. Interior Personalization

Even in a brand-new home, most homeowners want to add their personal touch through design updates:

• Custom paint colors and wallpaper
• Lighting fixture replacements
• Built-in bookshelves or accent walls
• Window treatments tailored to their style

Why: Post-purchase is when personalization truly begins—when owners turn their house into a reflection of their taste.

6. Flex Space Setup

Buyers who initially prioritized square footage often begin tailoring one room to meet work-from-home or creative needs.

• Ergonomic furniture and task lighting
• Acoustic upgrades or privacy doors
• Tech enhancements like Wi-Fi boosters or multiple monitors

Why: A comfortable and efficient workspace is still a must-have for many households.

7. Comfort and Wellness Upgrades

From air quality to spa-inspired features, new homeowners are focused on enhancing well-being.

• Water filtration systems
• Heated bathroom floors
• Air purifiers or upgraded HVAC
• Smart showers or bathtubs with massage functions

Why: Home is where wellness begins—and these small luxuries improve daily living.